‘Mathematics is not just a collection of skills, it is a way of thinking. It lies at the core of scientific understanding, and of rational and logical argument’, Dr. Colin Sparrow, University of Cambridge
INTRODUCTION
Mathematics is a universal part of human culture. It is the tool and language of commerce, engineering and other sciences – physics, computing, biology, etc. It helps us recognize patterns and to understand the world around us. Mathematics plays a vital, often unseen, role in many aspects of modern life, for example:
- Space travel
- Safeguarding credit card details on the internet
- Modeling the spread of epidemics
- Predicting stock market prices
- Business decision making
The Mathematics Department at Teesside High aims to give all pupils confidence in the use of mathematics, problem-solving skills, and the ability to think clearly and logically. Most pupils enjoy mathematics and experience success at all levels throughout the school. We are committed to assisting the pupils in achieving their potential and our aim in the Department is to make the study of mathematics stimulating, challenging and rewarding.
KEY STAGE THREE CURRICULUM
Pupils follow a spiral curriculum where key topics are visited and re-visited at higher levels to buildability and confidence. Topics include Number/Algebra, Statistics and Geometry & Measures. There are half-termly assessments throughout each year linked to the National Curriculum descriptors. This ensures each pupil is achieving according to their ability, and any problems are swiftly identified and appropriate support given.
KEY STAGE FOUR CURRICULUM
Currently, the students study Edexcel Mathematics B, with the following three units:
| Unit | Title | Weighting | |
| 1 | Statistics and Probability (Calculator Allowed) | 30% (60 marks) | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| 2 | Number, Algebra, Geometry 1 (Non-Calculator) | 30% (60 marks) | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| 3 | Number, Algebra, Geometry 2 (Calculator Allowed) | 40% (80 marks) | 1 hour 45 minutes |
The top set takes the full GCSE at the end of Year 10, and go on to study the AQA Further Maths GCSE.
From September 2015 the students will be studying the new Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics A. This has a number of interesting new topics including set theory and elementary calculus. It is excellent preparation for further A-level studies.
A-LEVEL CURRICULUM
The students study the Edexcel AS and A2 level courses.
The A level consists of a number of modules that can be combined to give A and AS levels at both Maths and Further Maths. These modules are divided into Pure Maths, Statistics, Mechanics and Decision Maths.
Pure Maths (C1…C4, FP1…FP3) Understanding of functions, extending into the new area of calculus. The course extends knowledge of algebra and trigonometry.
Statistics (S1, S2) The analysis and summary of data in order to arrive at conclusions and make predictions. You will learn about probability techniques.
Mechanics (M1, M2, M3) This looks at how mathematical models can be used to predict how objects move and respond to forces – e.g. a satellite in orbit around the earth.
Decision Maths (D1, D2) Decision Maths teaches systems to help make the best decisions. It has applications in business and real-life to minimize and maximize variables such as time and money.
DIGITAL LEARNING
As a department, we subscribe to the My Maths scheme of resources, which complements the full age and ability ranges at Teesside High. It can be accessed at any time from school, home, or even when on holiday. Interactive lessons, games, and worksheets are linked to a powerful Assessment Manager system that enhances the teaching while tracking and monitoring progress effectively.
In lessons, we use iPads for both types of research and to interactively explore parts of the syllabus. Homework and resources are shared with pupils on our Edmodo learning platform.
ENRICHMENT
There are weekly mathematics clinics to assist and stretch pupils in the subject. A large number of pupils are entered each year for the United Kingdom Mathematics Challenge (UKMC). The most successful of these students qualify and go on to compete in the British Mathematical Olympiads. Each year pupils are selected to join the various mathematics teams, competing against schools from across the UK. As a member of the Further Maths Support network, the school has access to regular events and guest lecturers.
WHERE DOES MATHEMATICS LEAD YOU?
Mathematics is one of the best subjects to develop your analytical, research and problem-solving skills. Not only will Mathematics give you the knowledge to tackle scientific, mechanical, coding and abstract problems, it will also help you develop logic to tackle everyday issues like planning projects, managing budgets and even debating effectively.
What careers in Mathematics good for? Just about everything! People with Mathematics qualifications can go into accounting, medicine, engineering, forensic pathology, finance, business, consultancy, teaching, IT, games development, scientific research, programming, civil service, design, construction, and astrophysics to name a few…
A spokesperson for the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications says: “A-level maths is tremendously important. It provides a firm foundation for all scientific, technical, engineering and mathematical careers and a flying start for many other types of careers, such as those in finance, medicine, agriculture… etc. The list is endless! “
What subjects does Mathematics go with?According to the Russell Group informed choices guide, Mathematics is a ‘facilitating’ subject, which means that it will help you to study lots of other subjects and pursue lots of different careers.
Mathematics directly supports the study of subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, IT, Economics, Business and Biology which can also help with your Mathematics revision. But studying Mathematics alongside an essay subject like English or History can help keep your options open for more jobs and university courses.
Mathematics is recommended or sometimes required for: Computer Science, Accounting, Chemistry, Biology, and Life Sciences, Medicine / Nursing, Dentistry, Business Studies, Management Studies, Finance, Architecture, Geology, Psychology, Surveying, and even Philosophy.
STAFF
Mr. Tim Middleton – Head of Mathematics
Mrs. Kerry-Lee Mardon – Oxbridge and STEP Coordinator
Mrs. Louise Cockerill
Mr. Steve Atkinson
Mrs. Katie Ward
Mrs. Mikaela Walker